A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake rocked western Colombia on Monday, killing at least 111 people and injuring 87, according to officials. President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a national disaster in response to the widespread destruction, which has left dozens trapped in collapsed buildings.

The earthquake's epicenter was located 5 kilometers east of San José del Palmar, Colombia, the U.S. Geological Survey reported. The seismic event, the strongest recorded in the country in a decade, was widely felt across Colombia and in neighboring Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama.

In the city of Cali, at least 20 buildings collapsed, with rescue efforts underway to free an estimated 15 people trapped in one structure. The mayor of Cali confirmed that people were trapped in collapsed buildings. The governor of Chuco reported severe damage and injuries in the capital city of Quibdo.

President de la Espriella stated that 61 buildings have collapsed and over 1,600 homes have been damaged or destroyed. Additionally, dozens of health centers, community centers, and roads sustained damage. Seven airports in cities including Armenia, Cali, and Pereira have suspended services.

President de la Espriella announced he was heading to Bogota to manage the emergency response and has convened a unified command post to address the needs of affected areas, particularly the Coffee-Growers' Axis region. This declaration underscores the severity of the disaster and the mobilization of national resources.

Initial reports indicate that the cities of Pereira and Cali were among the hardest-hit regions, with dozens of fatalities reported in each. The Colombian Geological Survey confirmed the earthquake's magnitude and its extensive reach across the region.

The United States is closely monitoring the situation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement indicating the U.S. stands ready to support the people of Colombia during this crisis.

While no collapsed buildings were reported in the capital, Bogota, the national impact of the earthquake is significant, with ongoing rescue operations and extensive damage assessment underway. The full extent of the casualties and destruction is still being determined.